As you address the golf ball the ball position plays a major role in the trajectory the golf
ball will have after impact. The further back in your stance the lower the trajectory and the less
backspin and more roll.(#1) The further forward in your stance
the higher the trajectory and the more backspin and less roll.(#2)
The upside to playing the ball back in your stance is the ability to make ball turf contact. If the
golf ball is back in your stance it is easier to make contact because the clubhead is swinging down
towards the golf ball. The further forward you move the golf ball in your stance the greater the
risk of hitting the ball on the upswing. If you make contact on the upswing you will strike the
middle or top of the golf ball and the result will be a low shot with flat trajectory.
By addressing the golf ball forward in your stance the leading edge of the golf club will swing
down into the ground directly under the golf ball. As the leading edge of the golf club makes
contact with the ground and the bottom of the golf ball, the ball will climb up the clubface which
in turn lifts the ball in the air.(#3) The lifting motion
impacts trajectory and backspin, two key elements to pitching the golf ball softly around the
green.
If you are struggling with pitching the golf ball, placement in your stance can play a major role
in you getting back on track. If you start with the ball in the center of your stance you will be
able to make contact and see instant results. Keep in mind moving the ball forward in your stance
will allow the golf ball to go up with trajectory however it makes the shot a bit more risky.
Often times it is difficult to see if the golf ball is in the correct position when you are
addressing the golf ball. One of the best ways to see if the ball position is correct is to
practice with three straight edges. The top line (straight edge) should point towards your intended
line you want the ball to travel on. The bottom line (straight edge) should aim parallel to the top
line. The bottom line is for your feet, knees, hips and shoulders. (#4)
